Retreat for Political Prisoners

FORT RETREAT TENERIFE

Strength is born in softness

1. Project Background

Natalija Kolegova, Head of Dapamoga, shares how the idea of a retreat in the Canary Islands for women — former political prisoners — was born:

“We have been traveling to the Canary Islands with my husband for many years. The first time we went there was during a difficult period — when we were facing serious health issues. It was there that we witnessed how surprisingly the body and mind can recover in this environment.

Later, a close friend of mine — a psychologist from Ukraine who had experienced the trauma of war — traveled there as well. I saw how her condition changed on the island. That was the moment when the idea first appeared: to one day create a space for recovery here for others.

At first, it felt like a business idea. But gradually it became clear — this could be an important humanitarian initiative.

This need became especially evident in 2025, when deported former political prisoners began arriving in Lithuania. We saw how deep their trauma was and how much they lacked a safe space for recovery.

That was when it became clear: such a retreat is truly needed.”

2. November 2025. Discovery of FORT

In November 2025, a villa called FORT was found in the Canary Islands — and its name naturally became the name of the entire retreat.

The word fort refers to strength — not external, but internal: quiet, resilient, and capable of enduring and healing.

That is why the project’s motto became: “Strength is born in softness.”

During this trip, Natalia met the owner of the house — and this meeting became a key turning point. Thanks to his openness and support for Belarusians, it was possible to agree on special rental conditions.

At that moment, the decision was made to hold the first retreat in April 2026.

3. December 2025 — January 2026. Formation of the First Group

During this period, work began on forming the first group of participants. It was a conscious decision that the first group would be women.

For women who have experienced imprisonment and repression, a safe and supportive environment is especially important. The format of a women’s circle made it possible to quickly build trust, mutual understanding, and emotional safety.

A significant role in this process was played by former political prisoner and activist Palina Sharenda-Panasuk, who helped establish communication and trust with the participants.

4. January — February 2026. Program and Logistics Preparation

During this period:

• flight tickets were purchased;
• transfer and accommodation logistics were organized;
• the retreat program was developed;
• specialists were engaged (psychologists, instructors, volunteers).

The program was designed as a balance between psychological support, body-based practices, rest, and genuine human connection.

5. March 2026. Final Preparations

In March, the team completed final preparations:

• coordination of participants’ arrivals;
• purchases and preparation of the space;
• finalization of the program;
• resolution of organizational and household matters.

The team was working in an intensive preparation mode.

6. April 1–29, 2026. Retreat in Tenerife

The retreat takes place at the FORT villa and lasts nearly a month. During this time, participants have already:

• taken part in group psychological sessions;
• practiced yoga, stretching, and breathing techniques;
• spent time by the ocean;
• climbed Mount Teide;
• gone on hikes (including Anaga and eucalyptus forests);
• observed dolphins and whales;
• visited natural and cultural sites (La Laguna, Puerto de la Cruz, museums);
• explored Loro Parque;
• participated in cooking masterclasses;
• spent evenings by the fire and in the sauna;
• joined group support circles.

However, perhaps the most important part is what happens between activities:

• trust is being built;
• mutual support emerges;
• new warm memories are created;
• a sense of safety gradually returns.

This project is also an opportunity to experience a completely different kind of shared living — radically different from the experience of imprisonment.

An experience where there is choice, respect for personal boundaries, care, and support — and where instead of guards, there are people who are ready to be present and help.

7. Financial Report

Income

As of April 20, 2026, a total of €11,201 has been raised.

Of this amount, €1,222 was received through a new platform launched by Dapamoga on March 25, 2026.

These funds are donations from private individuals — many of whom were previously supported by Dapamoga and now wish to support others.

Expenses

• villa rental and cleaning — €5,170;
• flights — €5,620;
• car rentals — €1,765;
• food and groceries — €3,304.15;
• household expenses — €381.92;
• fuel and transportation — €562.29;
• excursions — €702;
• parking — €54.30;
• partial compensation for a specialist — €520;
• organizational expenses — €27.96.

Total spent: €18,107.62.

Current Deficit

Remaining amount needed: €6,906.62.

At this stage, your support is especially important. We are currently seeking donors who are willing to help cover the remaining costs and bring this project to completion — ensuring that each participant can fully go through this recovery journey in a safe and supportive environment.

Supporting the Project

The retreat is still ongoing. Upcoming expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, and completion of the program.

Most specialists involved in the project are working on a volunteer basis — their work is not paid, and only essential organizational costs are covered.

If you are able to support this project with any contribution, we would be deeply grateful. Sharing this information also helps tremendously.

Every contribution is real support for people who have gone through repression, imprisonment, fear, and forced displacement.